Healthy Broccoli Salad

This healthy broccoli salad brings together the perfect balance of crisp vegetables, sweet fruits, and crunchy seeds in a light, creamy dressing. It's become my go-to recipe for summer gatherings where I want to offer something nutritious that everyone will actually enjoy eating.

I first made this salad for a neighborhood picnic where I wanted something that could sit out safely in warm weather. Now it's requested at every family gathering, especially by my cousin who claims she "doesn't like vegetables" but somehow always takes seconds of this salad.

Ingredients

• Fresh broccoli florets: provide the perfect crunch and are loaded with nutrients
• Blueberries: add a juicy burst of antioxidants and beautiful color contrast
• Red onion: offers a mild bite that balances the sweeter elements
• Dried cranberries: bring chewy texture and tartness
• Sunflower seeds: contribute essential healthy fats and satisfying crunch
• Apple pieces: add freshness and natural sweetness
• Lemon juice: prevents browning and adds brightness
• Greek yogurt: creates a creamy base with protein instead of heavy mayo
• Honey: naturally sweetens the dressing without refined sugar
• Apple cider vinegar: provides subtle tang and digestive benefits
• Poppy seeds: give visual appeal and slight nuttiness to the dressing

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the vegetables:

Wash and cut broccoli into bite sized florets small enough to eat comfortably in one bite. Finely dice red onion to distribute the flavor without overwhelming any single bite.

Combine dry ingredients:

Add broccoli, blueberries, red onion, cranberries and sunflower seeds to a large mixing bowl, distributing ingredients evenly throughout.

Prep the apple:

Core and chop apple into small uniform pieces then immediately toss with tablespoon of lemon juice in a separate bowl to prevent browning before adding to the main salad bowl.

Make the dressing:

Whisk together Greek yogurt, honey, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar and poppy seeds until completely smooth. The dressing should coat the back of a spoon but still be pourable.

Combine and serve:

Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and gently fold everything together using a large spatula until evenly coated. The salad can be served immediately or chilled for up to one hour for flavors to meld.

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The Greek yogurt dressing was a complete game changer in this recipe. My grandmother always made a similar salad with mayonnaise, but this lighter version lets the vegetables truly shine while still delivering that creamy texture we all crave. I've converted many mayo-lovers with this healthier alternative!

Make Ahead Tips

This broccoli salad is perfect for planning ahead but requires a simple strategy for maximum freshness. Prepare all the salad components and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Mix the dressing separately and keep it in its own container. When ready to serve, simply toss everything together. This prevents the broccoli from softening too much and maintains that wonderful crisp texture that makes this salad so appealing.

Easy Substitutions

The beauty of this broccoli salad lies in its flexibility. No blueberries? Substitute halved grapes or diced strawberries. Sunflower seeds can be replaced with pepitas, chopped walnuts, or slivered almonds depending on your preference. For a dairy free version, use coconut yogurt in place of Greek yogurt with excellent results. Maple syrup works wonderfully instead of honey for a vegan option. The recipe accommodates various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This vibrant salad pairs beautifully with grilled proteins like chicken or salmon for a complete meal. It makes an excellent side dish for barbecues and picnics since it contains no mayonnaise to spoil in warm weather. For a lovely lunch, serve a generous portion alongside a slice of crusty whole grain bread. The salad also works wonderfully as a topping for power bowls with quinoa or farro as the base for a nutrient dense meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Broccoli salad offers impressive nutritional value beyond just being delicious. The combination of fresh broccoli and blueberries delivers a significant dose of antioxidants that support overall health. Sunflower seeds provide healthy fats and vitamin E, while the Greek yogurt dressing adds protein without excessive calories. Each serving contains nearly 4 grams of fiber, making it satisfying despite being light. This makes it an excellent choice for those watching their calorie intake while still wanting maximum nutrition and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make this salad ahead of time?

Yes! Keep the dressing and salad separate in airtight containers, then toss right before serving for the best texture.

→ Can I use a substitute for Greek yogurt?

You can use 1 cup of mayonnaise instead of Greek yogurt. If so, reduce the honey to 3 tablespoons for balance.

→ How long can this salad be stored?

If prepared, the salad can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours after tossing with the dressing. Separate components last longer.

→ Can I modify the dressing ingredients?

Yes, you can replace lemon juice with apple cider vinegar or leave out poppy seeds. Adjust to your taste preferences.

→ What are some add-in ideas for this salad?

You can add walnuts, shredded carrots, or chopped avocado to customize the salad to your liking.